What’s on the Vermont permit test?

The Vermont permit test runs 20 questions. Passing takes 80%, which works out to about 16 correct answers. Topics span the usual material - signs, signals, right of way, alcohol and drug rules - plus the Vermont-specific items the state handbook adds. Vermont’s DMV uses just 20 questions; the test is short but the handbook is dense.

Questions split into two kinds: factual recall (signs, limits, right-of-way order) and short scenarios (what to do when X happens). Recall is the larger share.

If you study generic DMV practice, you’ll be missing the Vermont-specific section the test draws from. The handbook has rules unique to Vermont; practicing on Vermont-specific questions is the fix.

Sample questions (free, no signup)

Here are 6 practice questions in the Vermont format. Tap each to reveal the answer and the explanation. Want unlimited? Get the app.

Question 1: Can someone with a Vermont Junior Driver’s License carry passengers for hire?

• Yes, but only family members
• Yes, after six months
• No, never while holding a Junior Driver’s License

Correct answer: No, never while holding a Junior Driver’s License

Why: While holding a Junior Driver’s License, an individual may not carry passengers for hire. This is a complete prohibition that applies throughout the entire period of holding the junior license.

💡 Memory tip: Junior license = no passengers for hire, ever.

Question 2: At what age can you obtain a motorcycle endorsement or permit in Vermont?

• 16 years old
• 18 years old
• 14 years old

Correct answer: 16 years old

Why: Any person 16 years old or older who has a license may get a motorcycle endorsement or motorcycle permit by passing a test.

💡 Memory tip: 16 years old = time to ride; 14 is too young!

Question 3: When driving with a Vermont Learner’s Permit, who must be present in the front seat?

• A licensed parent, guardian, driving instructor, or licensed driver 25 or older
• Any licensed driver over 21
• Only a certified driving instructor

Correct answer: A licensed parent, guardian, driving instructor, or licensed driver 25 or older

Why: In Vermont, a learner’s permit holder must be accompanied in the front seat by a licensed parent or guardian, a licensed or certified driving instructor, or a licensed driver who is at least 25 years old.

💡 Memory tip: Front seat buddy: licensed parent/guardian, driving instructor, or 25+ licensed driver.

Question 4: If you hold a commercial driver’s license from another state and establish residency in Vermont, within how many days must you transfer your CDL?

• 30 days
• 60 days
• 15 days

Correct answer: 30 days

Why: Any person holding a commercial driver’s license from another state must transfer their commercial driver’s license within 30 days of establishing residency in Vermont.

💡 Memory tip: 30 days = one month to transfer your CDL after moving.

Question 5: How long must you hold an out-of-state Junior Driver’s License to avoid Vermont’s Graduated License provisions when converting?

• Three months
• One year
• Six months

Correct answer: Six months

Why: If you apply for a Vermont Junior Driver’s License with an out-of-state license, you will be subject to Vermont’s Graduated License provisions unless you have held the Junior Driver’s License in the other state for at least six months.

💡 Memory tip: Six months out-of-state junior license? Skip Vermont’s GDL when converting.

Question 6: What happens to passenger restrictions after holding a Vermont Junior Driver’s License for six months?

• No passenger restrictions, but cannot exceed available safety belts
• Still limited to family members only
• You can transport unlimited passengers

Correct answer: No passenger restrictions, but cannot exceed available safety belts

Why: After holding a Vermont Junior Driver’s License for six months, passenger restrictions are removed except that the number of passengers cannot exceed the number of available safety belts in the vehicle.

💡 Memory tip: Six months = no passenger limits, just count the seatbelts.

Vermont-specific rules to know

A short Vermont cheat sheet - eight rules drawn from the official handbook content. Worth a re-read the night before.

• License rules - During the first three months, you are restricted to driving alone unless there is a licensed and unimpaired parent/guardian, driver education instructor, or licensed individual 25+ years old…
• License rules - a Junior Driver’s License is issued to individuals who are 16 or 17 years old and have met all licensing requirements.
• Provisional drivers - The Commissioner may take away a Junior Driver’s License if you show unsafe driving through your actions, or if your parent or guardian withdraws their permission for you to drive.
• License rules - a Junior Driver’s License can be upgraded to a full Driver’s License at age 17, provided the driver has maintained a clean driving record for the previous six months.
• Fines & penalties - A person whose privilege to operate a motor vehicle in any state has been suspended, revoked, or refused cannot be issued a license until such suspension has been terminated and the person has…
• School buses - A Driver’s License allows a person to drive any noncommercial vehicle except a school bus or motorcycle, which require additional exams.
• License rules - While holding a Junior Driver’s License, you cannot operate a vehicle for employment for one year following issuance, or until you reach age 18, whichever comes first.
• Fines & penalties - The Vermont DMV manual defines nighttime driving as the period from 30 minutes after sunset to 30 minutes before sunrise.

How to schedule your Vermont permit test

You can typically schedule your Vermont permit test online through the official Vermont DMV / motor-vehicle agency website. Bring proof of identity, residency, and (if under 18) the required parent/guardian documentation. Fees vary by jurisdiction - check your local DMV office for current pricing. Some states require completion of driver’s education before testing.

This page references rules from the Vermont Driver’s Handbook. We are not affiliated with the Vermont DMV.

Studying in a neighboring state?

Each state’s exam is different. If you’re studying for a different state, here are nearby ones: New York permit test practice, New Hampshire permit test practice, Massachusetts permit test practice.

Frequently asked questions

How many questions are on the Vermont permit test?

The Vermont DMV permit test has 20 questions. You need to answer at least 80% correctly to pass.

What is the passing score for the Vermont permit test?

You need 80% to pass - that’s roughly 16 out of 20 questions correct.

How old do I have to be to take the Vermont permit test?

The minimum age in Vermont is 15. Check your local DMV office for any additional requirements like a parent’s signature or driver’s education enrollment.

Can I retake the Vermont permit test if I fail?

Yes. Most Vermont DMV offices let you retake the test, often after a short waiting period. Some locations charge a small re-test fee. Check your local DMV office for the exact rules.

Is the DMV Ready app good for Vermont?

For Vermont: 20-question practice exams, 80% pass mark, content from the Vermont driver handbook. Same shape as the real test.

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